MTV News’ WMC Guide: The Top Pool And Beach Parties

Posted 03/22/2010 1:40:02 pm
by MTV News.

By Adam Stewart

There’s a reason why the most anticipated electronic music event of the year is held in a place in the United States were snow isn’t even a remote possibility. Hundreds of Thousands of tan and toned bodies will be gracing not only the beaches but the swanky pools that adorn the back yards of some of the Miami’s finest art deco hotels. But with hundreds of hotels and miles of beach to choose from, where does one find the hottest and most sought-after parties that WMC has to offer? We have your answers for you as part of MTV’s guide to the Winter Music Conference. Buy your tickets or get in line now.

5: The Shelborne (3/23 – 3/28)
This infamous Collins Avenue hot spot is truly putting on a show this year. What was once a party that was commonly conceived to only appeal to the NYC club crowd has drastically expanded both its set list and its hours of operation. Teaming up with DJ Mag for the second year in a row, a seriously talented group of spinners is set to take the stage over all six days of the conference. The likes of Bob Sinclair, Jonthan Peters, Dubfire, the Martinez Brothers and Dennis Ferrer (who may have the club smash of WMC 2010 with “Hey Hey”) will be some of the dozens of top-notch acts hitting the stage over the course of the week.

4: Nikki Beach (3/26 – 3/28)
Technically, Nikki Beach isn’t really a pool party, but it might as well be. After all, they do have outdoor showers and misters everywhere. This year, they’ll be changing the pace a little bit and put the onus on their Friday afternoon (March 26) party to really get the weekend started. Global phenomena Ferry Corsten will fire up the bikini-clad crowd with anthems like “It’s Time” and “Fire,” while friends BT and WMC newbies Shiny Toy Guns will keep the party going. It should prove to be an excellently eclectic show.

3: Steve Angello’s “Size Matters” Pool Party at the Eden Rock (3/25)
The Eden Rock will again play host to the official headquarters of WMC. Headlined and organized by Swedish House Mafia member Steve Angello, this party is sure to please as he brings along Afrojack and his brother AN21. Steve is known for dropping huge anthems at WMC, and with hits like “Show Me Love” and “Tivoli” under his belt, we’re certain that we will not be let down.

2. Pete Tong’s BBC Radio 1 Pool Party at the Surfcomber (3/26)
Tong (pictured) is an industry legend, and this party never ceases to amaze even the most seasoned WMC veteran. This year’s star-packed lineup is headlined by Tong, Cedric Gervias, M.A.N.D.Y, Kaskade, and Mark Knight (to name just a few). Can’t make it Friday? Fret not. The Surfcomber hosts banging pool parties all week long.

1. Beatport Beach Parties at the Gansevoort Hotel (3/26-3/28)
My personal favorite WMC beach bash, this party never ever disappoints. The most eclectic blend of artists on the circuit keep you guessing as to what style of electronica you’ll be exposed to next, and to top it off, this legendary gathering has just moved itself into some proper new digs. What was once hosted at the National Hotel (which came with a line that literally stretched five blocks down Collins Avenue) has moved six blocks north and directly on the beach at the Gansevoort. From Friday to Sunday, you must make it at least once. With headlining acts like Bingo Players, Maya Vanya, DJ Chuckie, M.A.N.D.Y., Wolfgang Gartner and at least two thirds of the Swedish House Mafia, we are 110 percent stoked to find out what this years event has to bring.